Billy R. Hammond, Ph.D.

Research Interests

The Vision Sciences laboratory studies all aspects of the human visual system. This extends from basic studies of the cornea, lens and retina to applied studies of visual processing within the brain. A primary focus of the laboratory has been the investigation of how lifestyle, primarily dietary, influences both the development of degenerative disease and the normal function of the central nervous system. For example, we use psychophysical methods to measure the concentration of the dietary carotenoids lutein and zeaxanthin within the fovea (termed macular pigment or the macula lutea) and have related those pigments to various aspects of retinal and brain function.

The combination of expertise and our interdisciplinary approach has led to insights in a diversity of areas. For example, we have published data relative to the development of age-related eye disease and we are currently studying preventive approaches to dementia (including Alzheimers and Cognitive decline). We are also working on issues in Sports Vision and other aspects of visual performance. Another strong area in our laboratory is the maturation of the infant visual system and brain.